The Minnesota Vikings have benched starting right guard Ed Ingram in favor of veteran Dalton Risner, following a 23-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Head coach Kevin O’Connell highlighted the need for competition as the season progresses, without committing to either player long-term. Risner’s first start came under pressure against top-tier defensive talent, while Ingram has faced scrutiny for inconsistent play during his third season. O’Connell acknowledged the mixed performance from Risner but emphasized the importance of consistency in the offensive line moving forward.
By the Numbers
- Vikings ran 33 times for 82 yards in Week 11, averaging 2.5 yards per carry.
- Dalton Risner recorded a 50.0 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus in his starting debut.
Yes, But
Despite the switch, the Vikings’ running game struggled, a notable drop from their previous average of 4.2 yards per carry. Ingram’s agility provides a contrasting skill set that has potential advantages in the Vikings’ zone running scheme.
State of Play
- O’Connell is assessing performance while navigating the balancing act between run blocking and pass protection.
- Risner and Ingram are vying for a more permanent spot on an offensive line seeking stability.
What’s Next
The Vikings will evaluate Risner’s performance through film study, which may influence future decisions on the starting right guard position as they seek to strengthen their line ahead of the remainder of the season.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, the Vikings must weigh performance consistency against the need for improvement in their running game as they navigate the remaining games. The outcome of this competition could be pivotal in shaping the future of their offensive strategy.